On Friday afternoon, the Arizona Cardinals announced a pretty surprising move, revealing that they had released five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, DeAndre Hopkins. With the move, Hopkins now becomes a free agent and is free to sign with any team.
What isn’t surprising is the only two teams that have shown “substantive” interest in trading for Hopkins up until this point.
And According to NFL insider Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, it was—and maybe still is—the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills. Breer reported earlier Saturday that the Chiefs had received permission to talk with Hopkins earlier in the offseason and spoke to him before the draft. However, his contract was the hold up in the potential. As was the same case for the Bills.
Per Breer, the reigning Super Bowl champions made progress on a Hopkins trade with the Cardinals. However, Odell Beckahm Jr.’s deal with the Baltimore Ravens is what seemingly threw a wrench into any said progress. Beckham’s deal with the Ravens includes $15 million in base salary.
“As for where this goes next, I’d say the price will dictate that. Under current circumstances, unlikely KC or Buffalo go get him. If his price drops (both teams offered incentive-heavy deals), then … maybe,” wrote Breer.
As for where this goes next, I'd say the price will dictate that. Under current circumstances, unlikely KC or Buffalo go get him. If his price drops (both teams offered incentive-heavy deals), then … maybe.
(Both KC and Buffalo talked directly to Hopkins, and liked him.)
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) May 27, 2023
So, while both AFC contenders like Hopkins, his contractual demands make a deal unlikely at this. However, Hopkins could decide that a ring is worth more to him than money and as Breer said, opt for a more incentive-heavy deal with either side. Right now, where Hopkins ultimately ends up is anyone’s guess.
[Albert Breer on Twitter]
